Leicester

Day Trips

Begin your day with a visit to Leicester Cathedral, where you can admire its stunning architecture and learn about its connection to King Richard III. Walk through the charming streets of the Lace Market area, soaking in the historic atmosphere and quaint shops. Stop by the Guildhall, one of the best-preserved timber-framed halls in the country, to dive deeper into Leicester’s medieval past.

Head to the King Richard III Visitor Centre to uncover the fascinating story of the king’s life and the discovery of his remains beneath a car park. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café serving local British fare. Afterwards, stroll through Jubilee Square, taking in the vibrant street art and lively atmosphere, and visit the nearby New Walk Museum to explore its archaeology and natural history exhibits.

Dine at a traditional British pub in the city center, savoring classic dishes and local ales. Take a leisurely evening walk along the River Soar, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and city lights reflecting on the water. Finish your day with a performance at the Curve Theatre, experiencing Leicester’s rich cultural scene.

Start your morning at the New Walk Museum & Art Gallery, where you can explore collections ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art. Take your time admiring the diverse exhibits and interactive displays. Enjoy a coffee break at the museum’s café, soaking in the artistic surroundings.

Visit the Leicester Guildhall for an immersive historical experience, including a guided tour of its medieval rooms. Have lunch at a nearby eatery specializing in international cuisine to reflect Leicester's multicultural population. Spend your afternoon at the Phoenix Cinema, one of the oldest independent cinemas in the UK, catching an art-house or classic film screening.

Explore Leicester’s vibrant restaurant scene by dining at an Indian or East African restaurant, savoring the city’s renowned global flavors. After dinner, stroll through the lively Highcross Shopping Centre area, enjoying street performances or visiting local bars. End your evening with a craft cocktail at a stylish city center lounge.

Begin your day with a peaceful walk in Abbey Park, enjoying the beautifully landscaped gardens and the tranquil River Soar running through it. Visit the ruins of Leicester Abbey to connect with the city’s medieval monastic history. Take some time to feed the ducks and watch the swans glide across the park’s ponds.

Have a picnic lunch on the grassy banks or grab a takeout from a nearby café to enjoy in the park. Rent a pedal boat or rowboat and explore the waterways for a gentle adventure on the water. Visit the nearby Abbey Pumping Station museum to learn about Leicester’s industrial heritage and see fascinating steam engines in action.

Return to the city center for dinner at a riverside restaurant, enjoying views of the illuminated waterway. Take a relaxed evening walk along the Soar Valley Way, a scenic trail that offers peaceful city views. Wrap up with a nightcap at a cozy pub, chatting with locals about Leicester’s history and culture.

Start with a visit to Leicester Market, one of the largest outdoor covered markets in Europe, where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies. Chat with vendors and learn about the diverse ingredients used in Leicester’s multicultural cuisine. Enjoy a breakfast of traditional British pastries or a spicy samosa from a local stall.

Attend a cooking class focused on Indian or East African cuisine, reflecting Leicester’s rich immigrant communities. Explore the Belgrave Road area, often called the ‘Golden Mile,’ famous for its vibrant shops and authentic restaurants. Stop for lunch at a popular South Asian eatery, tasting dishes packed with bold spices and flavors.

Experience a food tour that takes you through Leicester’s best street food vendors and hidden gems. Sample dishes from a variety of cultures, from Caribbean jerk to Middle Eastern mezze. End your night with live music or a cultural event at a community center or café in the city.

Visit the National Space Centre to explore interactive exhibits about space exploration and astronomy. Engage with hands-on displays, watch a thrilling planetarium show, and discover the story of the cosmos. Enjoy an educational and exciting start to your day that captivates visitors of all ages.

Head to Bradgate Park for an outdoor adventure, spotting wildlife such as deer and enjoying panoramic views from Old John Tower. Have a family picnic surrounded by nature or grab lunch at the park’s café. Explore the walking trails and visit the ruins of Bradgate House, soaking in the park’s historical atmosphere.

Return to Leicester and dine at a family-friendly restaurant serving hearty British classics. Take a gentle evening stroll through the city’s illuminated streets, perhaps stopping for ice cream or a sweet treat. Share stories about the day’s adventures and plan tomorrow’s activities together.

Begin your day with a walking tour focusing on Leicester’s striking architectural highlights, including the modern Curve Theatre and the historic Leicester Corn Exchange. Photograph the blend of contemporary and Victorian styles that define the city’s skyline. Pause for coffee at a trendy café housed in a refurbished historic building.

Visit the University of Leicester campus to see landmarks such as the Attenborough Tower and the Fielding Johnson Building. Enjoy lunch at a student café buzzing with youthful energy. Explore the nearby New Walk pedestrian promenade, lined with Georgian townhouses and independent shops.

Dine at a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of Leicester’s cityscape as the sun sets. Afterwards, explore the nightlife in the cultural quarter, hopping between bars with live music and art installations. Conclude the evening with a quiet moment at a city garden or courtyard illuminated by soft lighting.

Visit St Mary de Castro Church, one of Leicester’s oldest places of worship, to admire its Norman architecture and tranquil churchyard. Wander through the nearby Castle Gardens to enjoy the historic ambience and scenic views. Learn about the church’s role in Leicester’s religious history and community life.

Explore the diverse places of worship around the city, including the Hindu temple on Narborough Road and the Central Mosque, reflecting Leicester’s cultural mosaic. Have a light lunch at a nearby café, sampling international vegetarian dishes inspired by these faith communities. Visit the Leicester Museum & Art Gallery to see exhibits related to the city’s spiritual and social history.

Attend an evening choral service or musical event at one of Leicester’s historic churches. Reflect on the day’s discoveries with a quiet walk through the city’s peaceful streets. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant offering traditional British comfort food.

Start your day browsing the shops at Highcross Leicester, a modern retail complex featuring both international brands and local boutiques. Enjoy a coffee at one of the stylish cafés inside the center while planning your shopping route. Explore the pedestrianized streets around the market square for unique finds and souvenirs.

Catch a matinee show or live performance at the Curve Theatre, appreciating Leicester’s vibrant arts scene. Have lunch at a bustling city center brasserie, savoring contemporary British cuisine. Spend the afternoon exploring independent bookstores, artisan shops, and galleries nestled in the cultural quarter.

Experience Leicester’s nightlife with dinner at a trendy restaurant followed by drinks at a nearby cocktail bar. Enjoy live music or a DJ set at one of the city’s popular nightclubs or pubs. End your evening with a relaxed stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking up the lively urban atmosphere.

Begin with a peaceful walk in Western Park, Leicester’s largest park, enjoying its woodlands, flower gardens, and wildlife ponds. Visit the park’s café for a fresh breakfast surrounded by nature. Take time to relax on the benches or explore the children’s play areas if traveling with family.

Head to the nearby Braunstone Park to enjoy a picnic lunch and perhaps rent a bike to explore the extensive trails. Visit the Braunstone Hall within the park, learning about its history and architecture. Spend the afternoon unwinding in this serene green oasis, away from the city bustle.

Return to Leicester for a casual dinner at a local bistro known for farm-to-table ingredients. Take an evening stroll along the Grand Union Canal, enjoying the reflections of city lights on the water. Finish your day with a cup of tea or hot chocolate at a cozy café near the city center.

Start with a tour of the King Power Stadium, home to Leicester City Football Club, exploring the stadium’s history and behind-the-scenes areas. Visit the club’s museum and shop for souvenirs. Enjoy a late breakfast at a nearby café popular with fans and locals alike.

Spend the afternoon at the Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre, trying activities such as kayaking, climbing, or archery for an adrenaline-filled experience. Have lunch at the center’s café, recharging after your sporting adventures. Alternatively, visit Abbey Park’s tennis courts or take a gentle cycle ride along city trails.

Dine at a sports bar or grill offering hearty meals and a lively atmosphere. Catch a live sports broadcast or join locals for a quiz night. Wind down with a casual walk through the city’s illuminated streets, reflecting on your active day.